Iraqi troops battle to advance in towns on edge of Tikrit

March 7, 2015 7:19 PM

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BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraqi security forces and Shi'ite militia fighters struggled to advance on Saturday into the two towns of al-Alam and al-Dour near Tikrit, their progress slowed by fierce defense from Islamic State militants.

"We are facing a strong resistance from terrorist groups and we are trying to surround Daesh inside al-Alam and al-Dour and cut all supply routes for them," said al-Alam mayor Laith al-Jubouri, referring to the Islamic State fighters.